The Spoils of War

Arrival

September 8th 2020. The allies were triumphant with yet another victory against the rival forces. The good guys were winning and it everything was almost over. After a successful streak of missions, the Military’s Special Forces J-unit was given a week’s pass and was commended on their bravery. Daniel could go home.

He was on the first flight home, New York. Upon arrival, Daniel hitched a ride with a trucker to a storage lot where his car and other items were kept. He walked up to the car which was hidden underneath a large, dusty and grey piece of material; he pulled it off to expose a 2010 Camaro ZR1. After starting up the car, he drove to a nearby florist to collect an order that he made while he was still on the plane. The order was six blue roses and a silver locket with the word ‘Infinity’ engraved on it.

Daniel stood in front of her apartment building in his best suit. With his heart in his throat and the gift in his hand, he took a deep breath and walked in. When Daniel arrived at the threshold of Sandra’s apartment, he knocked on the door but found no response. He knocked again, but there was still no response. Daniel went down to the lobby. He approached the doorman who sat in a booth that was surrounded by reinforced glass.

“Do you know when Miss Granger will be back?” Daniel asked.

“I believe she moved out a few months ago.”

“Do you know where I could find her?”

“I think she started studying at NYU, my best bet is that you will definitely find her there.” said the doorman.

“Thanks.” responded Daniel.

Daniel drove up town. He stopped at a small two story building at the corner of the city block. ‘Sal Bernadinni’s Pasta and Pizzeria’ was displayed in cursive on a flickering red neon coloured sign. At the front door there was an old man with a head of silver that turned a small sign from saying ‘open’ to saying ‘closed’. Daniel walked up to the building and knocked on the door.

“Sorry mister, the store is closed.” said Sal with his raspy voice.

“Hey Bernie, do me a favor and add some extra cheese on my deep dish, you know how I like my pizza.” exclaimed Daniel.

“Oh my god, Danny! Is that really you?” Sal exclaimed.

He welcomed Daniel in with a warm father like hug. Daniel had taken the time to explain to Sal his entire situation. “Danny you of all people should know that you are always welcome here. You can take the room upstairs if you like?” “Thank you so much Sal. I owe you one, big time.” said Daniel.

“Yeah, you sure as hell do.”